It doesn't seem any "smarter" today than it was when he signed them, for the simple reason that the did not know at the time he would not have AHern and Gronk in 2013 (if that is what pans out). Same as saying how stupid it was not to sign Welker for the same reason.

As for the TE, if we are thinking about AHern replacements, I prefer to think in terms of roles rather than positions. His roles can be filled by WRs, TEs, and FBs, for instance, albeit none with his versatility.

Rob Gronkowsi signed an extension in 2012 that contained about $13.2 million in full guarantees and another $5 million guaranteed for injury only. His cap numbers the next two seasons are very manageable at $2.75 and $5.4 million, neither of which rank in the top 10 of the position. His salary is fully guaranteed in 2014. The protection for the Patriots comes in 2015. Gronkowskiâ€™s base salary is guaranteed for injury only in 2015 and does not vest to a full guarantee until the 5th day of the 2015 League Year.​

The Hernandez situation appears to be heating up on many fronts between problems in local clubs, a shooting and a homicide investigation. Is it inconceivable that AH might be unavailable in the future. If so, the team has a problem with two big contracts: one that can't stay out of trouble; another that cannot stay healthy. At this junction, this is what the thread title- The Tight End Situation -means to me. And, let's factor in that the team strategised by having these guys in the lineup; putting out two big contracts.

In my opinion, the TE situation that appeared solid is falling apart. Perhaps, the others will step up? We'll see. However, having AH and Gronk in the lineup on a steady/regular basis seems to be far-fetched at this point in time.

Hernandez isn't even really a tight end, he was the team's #1 receiver. And this was a receiving corps that could ill-afford to lose anyone, because now you have a couple injury prone guys, a couple rookies, and a bunch of bad veterans

Hernandez isn't even really a tight end, he was the team's #1 receiver. And this was a receiving corps that could ill-afford to lose anyone, because now you have a couple injury prone guys, a couple rookies, and a bunch of bad veterans

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Well, if our receivers start looking like a bunch of blind mice in the preseason, I hope we have Brandon Lloyd and Deion Branch on speed-dial. They may not be anything special, but they at least know the offense.